Healthcare Scientists reach milestone in ground-breaking study
Our Healthcare Scientists are leading the way in a European-first trial that aims to transform how joint pain is diagnosed.
One hundred patient samples have now been processed as part of the ELIJA study – a testament to the skill and dedication of our Microbiology team.
This trial is the first in Europe to evaluate the Synvichor genomic PCR test developed by OrthoDx, which distinguishes between infectious and non-infectious joint inflammation in just a few hours. That’s a game-changing shift from the traditional testing process, which can take days, or even weeks, to provide clarity for patients and clinicians.
From processing each sample to maintaining the scientific integrity of the trial, our lab team, led by lead Clinical Scientist Dr Lindsay Coupland, is playing a vital role in bringing faster, more accurate diagnosis to patients with painful, swollen joints.
The Synvichor test uses PCR technology similar to what was used for Covid-19 testing, but adapted for analysing synovial fluid. The test delivers a rapid answer on whether infection is present – helping clinicians make faster decisions, avoid unnecessary hospital admissions, reduce antibiotic use, and tailor treatment more precisely.
This milestone marks real progress in our shared mission to transform diagnostics and it places our scientists at the very heart of that success.
Michelle Frost, Network Research Manager for Eastern Pathology Alliance (EPA), said: “This trial highlights the critical role of our healthcare scientists – not only in performing the testing, but in applying their specialised expertise to ensure analytical validity and diagnostic reliability. The integrity of any clinical trial rests on the accuracy and reproducibility of its results, and our team ensures that every result is robust and fit for clinical interpretation.”
“Reaching 100 samples is a huge achievement. It’s a testament to the hard work of our lab team who are absolutely vital – they are making this research happen. Every sample and every result matters because behind each is a patient waiting for answers. Thanks to our healthcare scientists, those answers are arriving faster than ever before.”
With a goal of 500 participants and Sheffield Teaching Hospitals also joining the study, momentum is growing.
Rebekah Girling, CSS Research Lead, said: “This milestone reflects the dedication and collaborative strength of our Research within Eastern Pathology Alliance. From lab bench to bedside, our Healthcare Scientists are demonstrating just how impactful their work is—driving forward innovation in diagnostics that directly benefits patients.
“The ELIJA study shows what’s possible when scientific rigour and clinical care go hand in hand for research outcomes. While many teams, including our valued research nurses, theatre staff, and registrars, have been essential to the success of this study, this communication focuses specifically on recognising the critical contribution of our EPA colleagues, whose specialist support has been fundamental to enabling the trial to run.”